Today we will consider being honest at work. One poll cited by newsman Paul Harvey stated that 40% of American workers admitted stealing on the job, and 20% felt justified! Their rationalizing included the following.

Everybody else is doing it.

My boss is rich. He can afford it.

It’s only the insignificant things.

They owe me. I’m taking what’s mine.

I deserve it. I work hard but never appreciated.

This what the Word of God says about being dishonest to your employers or leaders.

1. You cannot profit from ill gotten gains

Read Proverbs 10:2

You may steel. But you will never benefit from your theft. No matter how hard you try. You will never prosper.

2. Only the wicked earns deceptive wages

Read Proverbs 11:18

God says deceiving your employer by stealing time and materials or delivering an inferior product and service, is “wicked”. Of all people, employers and customers should be able to trust followers of Christ to be honest, work for their wages and provide the highest quality service. Remember, it’s not smart to steal, even if you don’t get caught.

3. Wealth obtained by fraud dwindles

Read Proverbs 13:11

You can’t do what is wrong and hope for good results. The wealth you obtained by fraud will dwindle before you know it.

4. Illicit profit curses your own home

Read Proverbs 15:27

Unemployment, damaged reputation, humiliation, legal costs and consequences are a ‘bill’ the whole family pays for, often ending in shame and divorce and affecting several generations. Your spouse deserves an honest partner. Your children deserve a role model they can emulate, confident the path you walk is safe for them to follow.